A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Write a Fantasy Novel

There’s something magical about letting your imagination roam free, isn’t there? That spark of an idea begins to take shape like a whole universe waiting to unfold. Learning how to write a fantasy novel involves creating a universe where anything is possible.

Writing a fantasy novel lets you breathe life into new realms, where you control the laws of magic, the rise of empires, and the fate of extraordinary beings. Sounds exciting, right? But before you set off on this adventure, there’s one thing to remember: even the most legendary tales started with a single step (or a blank page).

Here’s the deal: fantasy is one of the fastest-growing genres out there, with U.S. sales alone hitting a staggering $590.2 million annually and a 45.3% increase in 2021. And with series like Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, and Shandowhunter Chronicles selling millions of copies, there’s a thriving audience ready to devour your magical tales. So, whether you’re dreaming up enchanted forests or mysterious shadow realms, buckle up. 

This guide is your spellbook for crafting an unforgettable fantasy novel that’s destined to captivate readers from start to finish!

Steps to Write a Fantasy Novel

Writing fantasy goes beyond just throwing together some dragons and wizards—it’s about creating an immersive experience where your readers feel like they’re right there in the thick of the action. And the best part? The rules of reality don't apply! 

You get to design a world that fits your story’s needs, making it as whimsical or dark as you like. But no matter how fantastical your story is, the key is balancing all that magic with relatable characters and a gripping plot. Let’s dive into the core steps of turning your fantasy ideas into a novel that readers won’t want to put down.

Choose Your Target Audience

The first step in your fantasy-writing journey is figuring out who you’re writing for. Your audience influences your tone, themes, and even the kinds of characters you’ll develop. Whether your readers are young adults craving adventure or seasoned fantasy fans seeking complex political intrigue, you need to tailor your story to them.

Examples of Subgenres

Here are a few subgenres to think about:

• High Fantasy: Think Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings, and The Chronicles of Narnia, where entire kingdoms are at stake.
• Urban Fantasy: Modern settings with magic, like in The Dresden Files, Twilight, The Vampire Diaries, American Gods, or Neverwhere.
• Dark Fantasy: Gritty and morally complex, like The Witcher series.

Once you know your subgenre and target readers, you can start shaping your story accordingly.

Pro tip: You can conduct surveys or polls on social media platforms like Twitter or Reddit to directly engage with your target audience and gather insights on their preferences.

Study Other Fantasy Novels

Before you set out on your writing adventure, studying those who have done it before is crucial. Grab a few of your favorite fantasy novels and re-read them—but this time with a writer’s eye. Take note of how the authors handle character development, pacing, and world-building.

Study the works of authors like J.K. Rowling, J.R.R. Tolkien, George R.R. Martin, and Neil Gaiman. What draws readers to their books? How do they balance grand magical elements with personal character arcs? Is it the rich world-building, the clever dialogue, or the underlying themes of heroism, sacrifice, and love? Studying these stories will provide both inspiration and practical lessons for your writing. Re-read your favorites, not just for fun but to learn from them.

Pro tip: Keep a notebook handy and jot down how the best of the best handle plot twists, dialogue, and world-building.

Develop a Point of View (POV)

Now that you’ve studied the experts, it’s time to decide how you want to tell your story. Point of view (POV) is critical in fantasy because it shapes the reader’s experience of your world. Understanding how to write a fantasy novel means choosing the right POV to improve your storytelling significantly. Third-person is common in the genre because it lets you explore different characters' thoughts, often across vast, sprawling lands.

First-person POV can work too, offering a more intimate, character-driven story. Think of it as choosing a camera angle: Are we zooming in closely on one character, or do we get a bird’s eye view of the whole world? Once you’ve decided, stick with it—it’ll keep your storytelling consistent and engaging.

Pro tip: Write a scene from different POVs to see which perspective provides the most depth and emotional impact.

World-Building

Here’s where the magic happens! Mastering how to write a fantasy novel requires detailed world-building to create an immersive experience. This is what sets fantasy apart from other genres. You’re not just telling a story—you’re creating an entire universe, complete with its own rules, history, and cultures. But creating a fantasy world can be tricky. You don’t want to overwhelm readers with too many details upfront, but you also want them to feel immersed in your world.

Start by sketching out the basics. Is your world governed by magic? Are there mythical creatures roaming the land? What are the political systems, religions, or cultural norms? Layer your world with details that matter to your story. For example, Game of Thrones features dragons and intricate political systems, while The Lord of the Rings includes diverse races like Elves and Dwarves, each with unique abilities and cultural traits.

If your magic system is central to the plot, make sure it has clear rules. Maps can be helpful tools to visualize your world and ensure consistency. Then, think about what makes your world unique. Maybe your kingdom exists on floating islands, or your cities are built inside towering trees. 

Remember: Small touches can make a big impact and distinguish your world from others in the genre.

Create Compelling Characters

Even in the most magical of settings, it’s the characters who keep readers coming back. When learning how to write a fantasy novel, develop relatable characters—even if they’re wielding swords or casting spells. What are their goals? What do they fear? How will they grow throughout the story?

Don’t just focus on your protagonist; give love to your supporting cast, too. Your readers should feel invested in each character’s journey, whether they’re a reluctant hero, a cunning thief, or a wise mentor. Give your characters flaws, motivations, and inner conflicts—this adds layers to your story and keeps readers hooked.

Pro tip: Use character interviews to explore their personalities and motivations. This exercise can help you understand their reactions and growth throughout the story.

Craft an Exciting Plot

To successfully understand how to write a fantasy novel, you must know that an epic fantasy novel needs an equally epic plot. Think big, but don’t forget the little moments that make your story feel grounded. Start with a strong central conflict—something with real stakes that will drive your characters forward. Maybe your protagonist needs to save the kingdom, but they’re also grappling with personal demons or a forbidden romance.

A good fantasy plot mixes external conflicts (like defeating a dragon or overthrowing a tyrant) with internal ones (like overcoming self-doubt or learning to trust). The best stories weave these two types of conflicts together, making each character’s journey as compelling as the main plot.

Pro tip: Subplots are also a great way to add depth to your story. Perhaps a supporting character is dealing with their own quest or moral dilemma. Just make sure every subplot contributes to the overall narrative. Avoid unnecessary fillers.

Outline Your Novel

Before you jump into writing, outlining your novel can help keep you on track. This is a key step in the process of how to write a fantasy novel. It doesn’t need to be super detailed, but having a roadmap will prevent you from getting lost halfway through.

Sketch out your chapters, key events, and character arcs so you have a clear sense of direction. Story pyramids or scene breakdowns are great tools to help you visualize your plot’s rising action, climax, and resolution. 

Remember: Keep your outline flexible—your characters might surprise you along the way, and that’s part of the fun!

Write Your First Draft

With your outline in hand, it’s time to write your first draft. Focus on writing your ideas down on paper and letting your creativity run wild. This draft is your chance to explore your story’s potential and develop your characters further. Remember, it’s just the beginning—allow yourself to make mistakes and embrace the process. The revision will come later.

As you write, don’t get bogged down by minor details or the need for immediate perfection. Use this time to experiment with different narrative styles, dialogues, and plot twists. The goal is to get your ideas and story flowing onto the page. Trust the process, and remember that your first draft is a raw exploration of your novel's potential. Keep pushing forward, and allow your creativity to guide you through the initial stages of your storytelling journey.

Pro tip: Set daily or weekly writing goals to maintain momentum and keep your story evolving.

Revise and Edit

Once you’ve got your first draft, it’s time to polish. Revising and editing are crucial stages when figuring out how to write a fantasy novel effectively. No one’s first draft is perfect, and that’s okay. Self-edit your work for consistency, making sure your characters stay true to themselves and your world’s rules don’t contradict. Pay attention to pacing, clarity, and plot holes.

Consider using editing tools or working with professional editors for a thorough clean-up. Also, don’t forget to get feedback from beta readers. They can offer fresh perspectives and spot things you might have missed. After revisions, proofread to make sure your final manuscript is error-free.

Pro tip: Read your manuscript aloud or use text-to-speech tools to catch awkward phrasing and ensure the dialogue flows naturally.

Following these steps will lay the groundwork for a captivating and original fantasy novel. Embrace the challenging yet rewarding writing journey, stay true to your vision, and let your imagination guide you. With dedication, you'll craft a fantasy world that enchants and inspires readers.

Sample Ideas for Fantasy Novels

Need some inspiration for your fantasy masterpiece? These sample ideas will help you understand how to write a fantasy novel that stands out:

• A cursed warrior must complete a dangerous quest to break the spell or remain in his monstrous form forever.
• A young mage discovers a forgotten school of magic that could either save or destroy their world.
• In a kingdom where the seasons last for centuries, a girl born at the turn of winter must uncover her destiny.
• A rebel prince seeks to reclaim his throne with the help of an unlikely band of misfits.
• A witch’s apprentice stumbles upon an ancient prophecy that could change the fate of her homeland.
• A forbidden love between a dragon and a human threatens the fragile peace between their two species.
• A group of adventurers must navigate a land where time itself is falling apart.
• In a world where music is magic, a bard must compose the ultimate song to save her people.
• An assassin with no memory of his past is hunted by the very empire he once served.
• A war between gods leaves mortals scrambling to pick sides—and survive the chaos that follows.

These ideas are meant to ignite your imagination and help you brainstorm a unique concept for your own fantasy novel. The possibilities are endless, and with a bit of creativity, you can craft a story that stands out in the genre.

Transform Your Fantasy Novel with Dashtoon

After crafting your fantasy novel and exploring various ideas, why not take your storytelling to the next level? Dashtoon offers a fantastic way to visualize your story and bring your characters and worlds to life through comic art. Whether you’re looking to create stunning visual adaptations of your novel or simply explore your world in a new format, Dashtoon provides a free and accessible platform for artists and writers alike.

Here’s how Dashtoon can result in your comic's success:

• Global Distribution: Reach readers in over 120 countries, expanding your fan base and connecting with a global audience.
• Cutting Edge Features: Enjoy our AI-powered content recommendation engine and fast image loading times for a smooth, enjoyable reading experience on mobile for your readers.
• Explosive Growth: Benefit from a rapidly growing user base, increasing by 20% each month, and take advantage of our strong monetization metrics and diverse audience.
• Innovative Monetization: Utilize our Dashcash micropayments model, encouraging frequent purchases and offering a higher earnings potential compared to industry standards.

Dashtoon will help you visualize your epic battles, unique characters, and intricate plots in vivid colors and dynamic panels. With Dashtoon, you can transform your written work into captivating comics, making it accessible to a wider audience and adding a new dimension to your storytelling. It’s a unique opportunity to showcase your fantasy world in a visually engaging way.

Why not give it a try? Visit Dashtoon to see how your fantasy universe can leap off the page and into the realm of comics. Whether you aim to increase your story’s reach or experiment with visual storytelling, Dashtoon is your gateway to a whole new world of creative possibilities - without any costs!

Final Thoughts

Writing a fantasy novel is an adventure in itself, filled with world-building, character development, and thrilling plots. It requires patience, creativity, and a commitment to revising your work until it’s polished. But the rewards are worth it—a completed novel that transports readers into a world of your own making.

Remember to stay consistent in your writing habits. Whether you dedicate an hour a day or a weekend marathon session, the key is to keep going. And once your story is complete, polish it to perfection. The best novels aren’t written in one draft, after all.

And if you ever think about transforming your fantasy ideas into comic form, visit Dashtoon to bring your world and characters to life visually for free! It’s a great way to reach a broader audience, whether you’re a writer or just a fan of fantasy storytelling. Check it out and see how your novel could leap off the page into stunning visuals!

Now go on—your fantasy world is waiting to be written!

FAQs

Q. What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing a fantasy novel? 

A. Avoid overloading your story with excessive world-building details that slow the narrative down. Make sure your magic system and rules are clear and consistent throughout. Additionally, ensure that your characters have depth and are not just stereotypes or plot devices.

Q. How do I create a unique magic system for my fantasy novel? 

A. Start by defining the source of magic in your world and its limitations. Consider how it affects society and daily life. Develop a set of rules governing how magic is used and who can access it. Incorporate unique elements that distinguish your system from others in the genre.

Q. Can I mix different fantasy subgenres in one novel? 

A. Yes, blending different subgenres can create a fresh and engaging story. For example, combining elements of dark fantasy with high fantasy can add complexity and depth to your world. Ensure that the mix effectively serves your plot and characters and doesn’t become overwhelming.

Q. How do I balance world-building with character development? 

A. Integrate world-building details into your narrative through character interactions and plot events rather than overwhelming readers with lengthy descriptions. Focus on how the world affects your characters and their choices, which can also help develop their personalities and motivations.

Q. What role does pacing play in a fantasy novel? 

A. Pacing is crucial for maintaining reader engagement. Balance action scenes with quieter moments to develop characters and build tension. Ensure that your plot advances steadily and avoid dragging out scenes or introducing unnecessary subplots that could disrupt the flow.

Q. How can I ensure my fantasy novel stands out in a crowded market? 

A. Focus on originality in your world-building, characters, and plot. Bring a unique twist to common tropes or explore less conventional themes and settings. Engaging storytelling, combined with distinctive elements, will help your novel stand out to readers and publishers.

Q. How can Dashtoon help me visualize and promote my fantasy novel? 

A. Dashtoon offers a free platform for turning your written fantasy novel into visually captivating comics. We can create dynamic illustrations of your characters, settings, and scenes to help you engage a broader audience and provide a fresh perspective on your story. It’s an excellent tool for visual storytelling and promotion.